What if Jesus walked in right now?

What Jesus would say to me if he just walked into my room right now?

I think he would look right at me and smile. He would sit down right beside me and he would put his arm around my shoulder to talk. I think on most days he would say “Why do you worry so much, child? You belong to me. Your family belongs to me. I want you to count on Me. Know that I love you. Your worry smothers your awareness of how my Love for you constantly fills your life.”

And then, I would look right back at Him and say “You’re right!” And then I would smile too.

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” Matthew 6:25-26

“You’re blessed when you feel you’ve lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you.” ~~Jesus

Jesus challenges us to be radical in our love for God. Do I want to be embraced by our Father? Is He the most dear thing in my life? How can I get to that place every day?

I will be more than happy (blessed) when I have lost everything that I think is important to me in this world for Jesus. Jesus doesn’t exclude anything on the list. Not family, possessions, not anything. That is our Messiah’s challenge to us. Give it up for Him. Seriously.

That is what He requires. That brings us true happiness. His happiness.

“You’re blessed when you feel you’ve lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you.” ~~Jesus (Matthew 5:4 The Message)

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“You only make things worse when you lay down a smoke screen of pious talk, saying, ‘I’ll pray for you,’ and never doing it.” ~~Jesus

Jesus knows us. He challenges us to not “be religious”. If we say we will pray, we must do it earnestly. We must do it often. We must go after the victory with our brother and sister. Jesus demands it. It is the way in His new agreement with God, our Father.

Jesus challenges us to be genuine in Him. Being pious and phoney makes things worse not better. We don’t make our words true by embellishing them with religious lace. In making our speech sound more religious, it becomes less true.

“You only make things worse when you lay down a smoke screen of pious talk, saying, ‘I’ll pray for you,’ and never doing it.” ~~Jesus (Matthew 5:33-37 The Message)

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“Come with me. I’ll make a new kind of fisherman out of you. I’ll show you how to catch men instead of perch and bass.” ~~Jesus

Jesus challenges us to think about our jobs differently. To fishermen, he challenged them to not think of their jobs as catching fish. Their job is to catch men for God. A completely different way of seeing our work. It is seeing it God’s way.

How does God see our job? Do we see it the same way?

“Come with me. I’ll make a new kind of fisherman out of you. I’ll show you how to catch men instead of perch and bass.” ~~Jesus (Matthew 4:18-20 The Message)

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What should we name Him wasn’t his biggest problem

Joseph had a lot to deal with. What to name the Son of God wasn’t one of them. God’s angel made that clear to him. His name is Jesus, “God Saves”.

His bigger problem was what to do about his fiance who was pregnant but claimed the Holy Spirit got her pregnant. He trusted Mary but only up to a point. He was going to call the whole thing off. The angel solved that for him as well.

So … the Son of God is named Jesus. And, most importantly, He saves us.

While he was trying to figure a way out, he had a dream. God’s angel spoke in the dream: “Joseph, son of David, don’t hesitate to get married. Mary’s pregnancy is Spirit-conceived. God’s Holy Spirit has made her pregnant. She will bring a son to birth, and when she does, you, Joseph, will name him Jesus—’God saves’—because he will save his people from missing God’s goal (sin) for their lives.” Matthew 1:20-23

“Keep open house; be generous with your lives.” ~~Jesus

Jesus wants us to radically open. He links this to being generous. Everything we are belongs to our Father. Jesus knows that by opening up to others, we’ll prompt people to open up with God. They will see this generous Father we have in heaven. They will see, through our openness about God how wonderfully generous he is. What a loving Father He is.

This is core to the new agreement with God. Nothing is be hidden. Nothing is to be closed. Transparency is required. Jesus demands it.

“Keep open house; be generous with your lives.” ~~Jesus (Matthew 5:14-16 The Message)

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“Don’t you dare test the Lord your God.” ~~Jesus

Satan comes to us and subtly makes suggestions. Or, maybe they are not so subtle. Satan may even quote scripture to us. He did with Jesus.

The essence of the suggestion is not trusting in God and testing Him. “If you are God, then …”

What does Jesus have to say about this. What does He say to Satan. He is clear. We are not to test God.

“Don’t you dare test the Lord your God.” ~~Jesus (Matthew 4:7 The Message)

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“I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine!” ~~Jesus

Jesus challenges us to be public, to tell all about His Father’s love, to be radical in our devotion to Him. He will accept nothing less.

He makes us shine. We don’t do it. He puts us out front to bring God the glory. Our job, in His new plan, is to be obedient.

“I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine!” ~~Jesus (Matthew 5:14-16The Message)

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“When you do something for someone else, don’t call attention to yourself.” ~~Jesus

Jesus calls us to a higher standard than the way of this world. He is in charge of the new plan. This is a plan of humility.

The call from Jesus is to just help and love people. Don’t worry if anyone knows. Our Father knows. That is enough. Pleasing our Father is the only thing this is all about.

“When you do something for someone else, don’t call attention to yourself.” ~~Jesus (Matthew 6:2-4 The Message)

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“God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.” ~~Jesus

We often worry about what might happen. Conventional wisdom says “plan for the worst”. And so we do.

Jesus is direct and challenges us to change our minds (repent) about thinking that way. His way is to not worry and trust that God, our loving Father, will helps us the time we need it. Jesus challenges us to give our entire attention to God right now. God is our God now.

“God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.” ~~Jesus (Matthew 6:34 The Message)

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“Beat it, Satan!” ~~Jesus

Jesus understands Satan’s approach. Three times Satan tempts him. 

Jesus quotes God’s word and then uses his authority to send Satan on his way. Jesus has given us the same authority. We are in the new plan with God. Jesus brokered the agreement.

May I use the authority of Jesus.

“Beat it, Satan!” ~~Jesus (Matthew 4:10 The Message)

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“In prayer there is a connection between what God does and what you do.” ~~Jesus

God wants us to act on what He is talking with us about. Jesus gets that. Jesus knows what the Father is doing and He does that. He acts on His Father’s words. He knows the vital connection between knowing and doing.

Jesus challenges us to listen to our Father and act on what we hear. There is a vital connection between what God is doing and what I should be doing. Is God forgiving me? I must forgive myself and everyone else. Is God healing me? I must bring others to God’s healing hand.

What is God doing? Am I doing it as well?

“In prayer there is a connection between what God does and what you do.” ~~Jesus (Matthew 6:14 The Message)

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“You’re blessed when you’re content with just who you are—no more, no less.” ~~Jesus

We are always looking for more. We want to be better. We want to develop.

The reality of who we are is that we are God’s precious children. Jesus challenges us to accept that and be content. When we do, we have everything we need. There are things that can’t be bought. Who we are, i.e., children of God, is one of them. Being content with that makes us more than happy. It makes us blessed.

“You’re blessed when you’re content with just who you are—no more, no less. That’s the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can’t be bought.” ~~Jesus (Matthew 5:5 The Message)

“You’re blessed when you’re at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule.” ~~Jesus

When there is less of what we want and more of what God wants, that is a good thing. It isn’t about us. That is hard for us to wrap our brains around some days. We have lots of resources at our fingertips. Who needs God when you have a credit card?

Getting to the end of our rope and seeing it isn’t about us makes us more than happy. We are blessed.

It is a pretty good rule of thumb that we need more of God. When we allow Him to rule we are more than happy. We are blessed.

“You’re blessed when you’re at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule.” ~~Jesus (Matthew 5:3 The Message)

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“All this time and money wasted on fashion—do you think it makes that much difference?” ~~Jesus

Jesus knows how to ask questions. He forces us to get clear. What is important? Perhaps the question is rhetorical but it is worth an answer. So ask yourself. Do you think it makes much of a difference (in God’s world)?

Jesus knows, directly from God, what is important. It isn’t our fashion sense. It isn’t the kind of car we drive. It isn’t how well our house is decorated. It isn’t how well we eat.

Jesus challenges us to get our priorities in line with God and His government. Does our burn with love for God? Do we love everyone? Do we have a heart for God?

Everything that isn’t focused on Him, what He wants and loving others is a waste of time and money. Period.

“All this time and money wasted on fashion—do you think it makes that much difference?” ~~Jesus (Matthew 6:27-29 The Message)

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“My prophets and witnesses have always gotten into trouble.” ~~Jesus

Jesus challenges us to be radically different from most Christians and religious types of people. It will get us in trouble. In fact, it is a promise.

That is nothing new. You can go back and read almost any account of men and women of God. Being on God’s side will get you in trouble with people of this world. Just look at Jesus.

Getting in trouble for Jesus puts us in good company.

“My prophets and witnesses have always gotten into trouble.” ~~Jesus (Matthew 5:11-12 The Message)

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“I am going to put it all together, pull it all together in a vast panorama.” ~~Jesus

Jesus has it all together. All the complexity we see. All we don’t understand. He sees it simply. He understands it all. He is putting it all together.

If we want understanding, let us go to Him. Jesus is the author of our life in God and He is the one who is going to finish it all out. We have nothing to worry about. He has it all figured out. Our job is to trust Him.

“I am going to put it all together, pull it all together in a vast panorama.” ~~Jesus (Matthew 5:17-18 The Message)

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Should I be the judge?

This theme seems very clear. There isn’t too much to be added here. 8 very specific references citing Jesus, Peter and James. Should I be the judge?

1. Matthew 7:1 Do not judge, or you too will be judged.
2. Matthew 7:2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
3. Luke 6:37 Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.
4. Romans 14:4 Who are you to judge someone else’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls. And he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand.
5. Romans 14:10 You, then, why do you judge your brother? Or why do you look down on your brother? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat.
6. 1 Corinthians 4:5 Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men’s hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God.
7. James 4:11 Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it.
8. James 4:12 There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?

“You know both God and how he works.” ~~Jesus

Jesus challenges us to not worry and live for what God wants to accomplish today. God takes care of the flowers and the birds. We see that and know that. And yet we get focused on the wrong things.

If God gives such attention to the appearance of wildflowers—most of which are never even seen—Jesus wants us to know that God will attend to us, take pride in us, do his best for us? God is the loving Father who has our best in mind all the time.

Do we know God is in a good mood? If so, we know how he works. We need to understand in our heart the very nature of God. Once we get that, we will always know how He works.

“You know both God and how he works.” ~~Jesus (Matthew 6:33 The Message)

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Are you luke warm about Jesus?

Powerful message from Francis Chan.

“Knowing the correct password—saying ‘Master, Master,’ for instance—isn’t going to get you anywhere with me. What is required is serious obedience—doing what my Father wills. I can see it now—at the Final Judgment thousands strutting up to me and saying, ‘Master, we preached the Message, we bashed the demons, our God-sponsored projects had everyone talking.’ And do you know what I am going to say? ‘You missed the boat. All you did was use me to make yourselves important. You don’t impress me one bit. You’re out of here.’ (Matthew 7:21 The Message)

“I know you inside and out, and find little to my liking. You’re not cold, you’re not hot—far better to be either cold or hot! You’re lukewarm. You’re stale. You’re stagnant. You make me want to vomit. You brag, ‘I’m rich, I’ve got it made, I need nothing from anyone,’ oblivious that in fact you’re a pitiful, blind beggar, threadbare and homeless.” (Revelation 3:16 The Message)

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“The simple moral fact is that words kill.” ~~Jesus

Jesus warns us to be careful about what we say to others. Our mandate is to love. Anything other than that is not acceptable. Our words to others is a reflection of life or death. This is stark but He gives a whole new way to live through His Holy Spirit.

In His world (Kingdom) there is no loving your friends and hating your enemies. It is only love. What we say to others should reflect that. He demands it.

“The simple moral fact is that words kill.” ~~Jesus (Matthew 5:22 The Message)

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“I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine!” ~~Jesus

No who hides a light? It seems like a silly question. No one does. Well, children do when they are supposed to be asleep and they read under the covers.

We are God’s light to the world. Jesus demands that we shine.

Jesus challenges us to shine. He has redeemed us for a reason.

“I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine!” ~~Jesus (Matthew 5:14 The Message)

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“If you simply say hello to those who greet you, do you expect a medal?” ~~Jesus

Sometimes we get so proud of ourselves for doing what anyone can do. Jesus challenges us not to see things that way. That isn’t the way it is in God’s world (Kingdom).

Jesus challenges us to love like He does. He was ridiculed, humiliated, killed and yet did it all for love. He empowers us to do it. He gives us the Holy Spirit and a completely new heart.

“If you simply say hello to those who greet you, do you expect a medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that.” ~~Jesus (Matthew 5 The Message)

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“Here’s what I propose: ‘Don’t hit back at all.’ If someone strikes you, stand there and take it.” ~~Jesus

Jesus challenges not to retaliate. It is in our core, when someone hurts us, to strike back. Jesus has a different way. Don’t hit back at all. Just take it. Agree with your adversary.

Jesus has higher standards for us than what the world expects. He expects us to be full of the love of God. Love acts differently. Love is kind and patient. Love does not retaliate.

May I love like God. May I not be defensive and retaliate.

“Here’s what I propose: ‘Don’t hit back at all.’ If someone strikes you, stand there and take it.” ~~Jesus 

“Don’t worry about missing out. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.” ~~Jesus

Jesus challenges us to not worry. God is God, in control and in a good mood. God will take care of us. He has our best interest at heart. Do I believe that? Does what I say reflect that? Do my actions make it clear to everyone that is my reality?

At our core, we are concerned we are missing out on something. By trusting in God, we are getting everything God wants us to have.

This is tough but it is essential in God’s World (Kingdom).

“Don’t worry about missing out. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.” ~~Jesus

“You don’t make your words true by embellishing them with religious lace.” ~~Jesus

Jesus challenges us to make sure our words are clear and genuine. They should reflect all of His love. Embellishing what we say with religiosity is useless. Being religious isn’t being genuine in God.

Sounding religious doesn’t make us religious.

“You don’t make your words true by embellishing them with religious lace.” ~~Jesus

“If someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant life.” ~~Jesus

It happens all the time. Someone uses us for their own advantage. We get upset. It’s just not right. We plot how we can get even. We put them in their place. We feel better for a while. But we are not at peace.

Jesus challenges us to not see it that way and act that way. It shouldn’t be about who is right. We are here to love and serve. That is the “Jesus way”.

“If someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant life.” ~~Jesus 

“Don’t say ‘God be with you,’ and not mean it.” ~~Jesus

Jesus challenges us to mean what we say. Religious jargon and trite sayings are useless. It is the power of the risen Lord and Savior that means something. Jesus challenges us to understand what action God wants us to take not say some religious saying. The action Jesus took was always specific. He healed the blind but never exactly the same way.

May I live the life Jesus wants me to every day. May my life speak his power.

“Don’t say ‘God be with you,’ and not mean it.” ~~Jesus

“Too many of you are using doing things ‘legally” as a cover for selfishness and whim, pretending to be righteous just because you are ‘legal.’ .” ~~Jesus

Jesus challenges us to look at whether meeting the “letter of the law” means we are living right in God. God’s right way of living has nothing to do with “not doing” things but has everything to do with loving Him and others every day.

May I be right in Him doing His right things everyday.

“Too many of you are using doing things ‘legally” as a cover for selfishness and whim, pretending to be righteous just because you are ‘legal.’ .” ~~Jesus

“Las Vegas and New Orleans will have it easy on Judgment Day compared to you.” ~Jesus

Tyre and Sidon were well known pagan cities in Jesus time. It might be like saying Las Vegas and New Orleans will have it easy on Judgement Day. Jesus is in our midst performing amazing miracles. Do we see Him? Do we hear Him? Do we believe Him?

It is easy to judge places like Las Vegas and miss what He is doing in Dallas. May I see Jesus here and respond to Him.

“Tyre and Sidon will have it easy on Judgment Day compared to you.” ~Jesus

“I’m not here to demolish God’s Law or the Prophets but to complete. ” ~~Jesus

Jesus, God’s Son, shows how He completes what was started in the Old Covenant (Testament). Everything in the Old Covenant pointed to Him. He completed everything through His life, death for us having missed God’s goal for our life, glorious resurrection and ascension to rule with God. As He said on the cross, “It is finished”.

“Don’t suppose for a minute that I have come to demolish the Scriptures— either God’s Law or the Prophets. I’m not here to demolish but to complete. ” ~~Jesus

“You can’t get forgiveness from God, for instance, without also forgiving others.” ~~Jesus

Jesus has set the bar high in some cases. We all want to be forgiven. To receive that in all its fullness, we need to forgive others. We can do that through the power of His Holy Spirit. We are the forgiving people!!

“You can’t get forgiveness from God, for instance, without also forgiving others.” ~~Jesus

“Carelessly call a brother ‘idiot!’ and you just might find yourself hauled into court..” ~~Jesus

Jesus is clear what love looks like. Our words need to reflect His love in us. Jesus knows that being careless in what we say to others can have consequences we don’t want to see.

May what I say reflect His love in my heart.

“Carelessly call a brother ‘idiot!’ and you just might find yourself hauled into court..” ~~Jesus

Today God is First

The list of things I can worry about is pretty long. My heavenly Father knows I need stuff. I have to have faith. It is all about faith. Do I believe He loves me and has every good thing ready for me? Will He not do His best for me? I have to be going after His Kingdom. I have to seek the right standing He can bring to me. The other stuff will come.

May I pay attention to what He is doing now and not worry about what may or may not happen tomorrow!!!

For this reason I say to you, do not be worried about your life …. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more clothe you? You of little faith! Do not worry then, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will wear for clothing?’ For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. So do not worry about tomorrow ; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:25-34

“In making your speech sound more religious, it becomes less true.” ~~Jesus

Jesus is clear about using “religious language”. Don’t do it. Be genuine. Use contemporary terms to point people to God’s world. Here are some easy changes:

• Gospel – Good news
• Sin – Missing God’s goal
• Repent – Change your mind

What are others you would suggest?

“In making your speech sound more religious, it becomes less true.” ~~Jesus 

“If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you?” ~~Jesus

Jesus doesn’t want us to play a game of hide and go seek. Now think about it. He is light. He wants us to be light-bearers. He wants us to tell everyone that He is the Master. He has Good News. God’s government is here, right now. There is nothing to hide. Not at all.

So …. let us shine His light and don’t hid a thing.

“If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you?” ~~Jesus

“Live generously.” ~~Jesus

God is so very generous to us. Although we don’t deserve it, He lavishes us with every gift imaginable. We can’t even think of every thing He is going to do for us.

Jesus demands that we live generously. Love God; love others! That is His command in His mission for our life.

“Live generously.” ~~Jesus

“Trivialize even the smallest item in God’s Word and you will only have trivialized yourself.” ~~Jesus

God means what He says. What He says is important. What He says is not to be trivialized in any way. When we do, we trivialize ourselves, not Him. His word will always be true.

Jesus demands that we understand that. It is important.

“Trivialize even the smallest item in God’s Word and you will only have trivialized yourself.” ~~Jesus

“God’s Law is more real and lasting than the stars in the sky and the ground at your feet.” ~~Jesus

Jesus is clear on what God has said. His word is like Him. It is here to stay. Nothing can be added to it or taken away from it. He means what He says. We can count on Him.

Now that is some good news.

Exactly like Jesus says? Yes, that is our job.

Jesus has things he wants us to do. He gives us instructions. Do we do it exactly like He says? Or do we attempt to do it “in the spirit” of what He meant? Well, we tell ourselves and others, He didn’t really mean it that way. Or, that was just for his disciples then, it doesn’t apply to us today. Really? That is our approach to our Master. Do effective employees “kind of do” what their boss wants them to do? Not if they want to keep their jobs. I want to keep my job with Jesus.

The disciples went and did exactly what Jesus told them to do. ~~Matthew 21:6

“We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill.” ~~Jesus

There are times Jesus will do things and demand that it not be shared with others. It is a God thing just for that person.

Jesus does want us to be public about God’s World (Kingdom). It is not to be hid. We are to be a light in darkness. We must go public.We must be open. We must be transparent.

This world (not God’s World) needs to hear the good news about what is like to be restored by Jesus.

“An ‘Eye for eye, tooth for tooth.’ Is that going to get us anywhere?” ~~Jesus

Jesus loves the word of God. He also knows the legalism can be taken to the extreme. He summarizes God’s Law up as 2 essential requirements. Love God and love everyone we come in contact with every day. He demands we focus on those two requirements.That is the essence of things in God’s world. That is His law.

Legalism isn’t going to get us anywhere. End of story.

“Count yourselves blessed every time people put you down or speak lies about you to discredit me.” ~~Jesus

Are people putting me down because of my following Jesus? Do I make others uncomfortable with my passion of our Lord? Uncomfortable questions in a culture that values “not rocking the boat”.

Oh well. I am more than happy (blessed) when it happens.

“Count yourselves blessed every time people put you down or throw you out or speak lies about you to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable.” ~~Jesus 

Against the grain

In listening to Jesus, much of what He is saying (see Matthew 5) goes against the grain of what I have thought brings happiness. Here are some of the things that don’t make sense in this world but lead to happiness in His Kingdom:

• With less of me there is more of God and his rule.
• I have to lose what is most dear to me.
• I must be content in who I am in His kingdom.
• I must be a glutton for Him spiritually. Hunger for Him more than food.
• I must care for others, not myself.
• I must get my inside world, mind and heart, right first.
• I must show others how to cooperate not compete.
• I must be comfortable that my commitment to God will provoke persecution.
• I must please Him first.

So, there it is. It is not conventional wisdom at. It is God’s way.

Can you impress God?

I can’t impress God. Some ministers are trying to impress us though. Jesus called it straight. Character is all that counts.

We are too easily attracted to charisma. That doesn’t impress God at all. It should impress us either.

It isn’t what a minister says. It is who he is.

God knows. Just ask Him.

Be wary of false preachers who smile a lot, dripping with practiced sincerity. Chances are they are out to rip you off some way or other. Don’t be impressed with charisma; look for character. Who preachers are is the main thing, not what they say. A genuine leader will never exploit your emotions or your pocketbook. These diseased trees with their bad apples are going to be chopped down and burned. Matthew 7:15-20

What does He want us to know?

There are some things that really please our Father. One of them is to reveal things to those of us who will believe just like little children do. And so, what does He want us to know?

• He will give us rest.
• Serve Him and we will learn.
• His way is easy, not difficult.

At that time Jesus said, ‘I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure. ‘All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. ‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.’ Matthew 11:25-30

When I care

I have to get out of myself. Out of what I think is so dadgum important. I have to start being “care-full”. I need to abandon myself to caring. What else really matters?

Isn’t that what I love so much about my Father. He abandoned himself so much that He sent His Son for me. He didn’t hold back any good thing. His gift to me is complete!!

May I be care-full!! May I be cared for.

You’re more than happy when you care. At the moment of being ‘care-full,’ you find yourselves cared for. Matthew 5:1-12

More boldness and fearless confidence!!!

If Peter was anything, he was nothing but bold. But it seems that he was also asking for more. This boldness came upon him suddenly and he didn’t ignore it.

When I have my eyes on our Master Jesus that is the way it is. Jesus was the same way. He didn’t do anything but what he saw His Father doing. AND we serve a bold God.

May I have more boldness and fearless confidence. Water longs to be walked on again!! God is looking for men and women who are bold and confident in Him.

As soon as the meal was finished, he insisted that the disciples get in the boat and go on ahead to the other side while he dismissed the people. With the crowd dispersed, he climbed the mountain so he could be by himself and pray. He stayed there alone, late into the night.Meanwhile, the boat was far out to sea when the wind came up against them and they were battered by the waves. At about four o’clock in the morning, Jesus came toward them walking on the water. They were scared out of their wits. “A ghost!” they said, crying out in terror.But Jesus was quick to comfort them. “Courage, it’s me. Don’t be afraid.” Peter, suddenly bold, said, “Master, if it’s really you, call me to come to you on the water.”He said, “Come ahead.” Jumping out of the boat, Peter walked on the water to Jesus. But when he looked down at the waves churning beneath his feet, he lost his nerve and started to sink. He cried, “Master, save me!” Jesus didn’t hesitate. He reached down and grabbed his hand. Then he said, “Faint-heart, what got into you?” The two of them climbed into the boat, and the wind died down. The disciples in the boat, having watched the whole thing, worshiped Jesus, saying, “This is it! You are God’s Son for sure!”Matthew 14

Crutches?

He didn’t cause anyone to be lame. It was never about character building. There was no lesson to be learned. No patience needed. They came to Him. All the time. He always healed them.

He didn’t give crutches to the lame. He commanded them to stand. They did at His word.

What an amazing God we serve. He makes us whole again.

 …    the lame came to Him in the temple , and He healed them.  Matthew 21:14

 

 

 

Content with who I am

All that striving is useless!! Can I be content with who I am? Is that it? That is all there is to it!! That is the attitude my Father wants me to have. There are things that just can’t be bought. Happiness is one of them. I just can’t whip out my credit card and buy it.

May I be content!!

You’re more than happy when you’re content with just who you are—no more, no less. That’s the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can’t be bought. Matthew 5:1-12

Use me Lord

Use me Lord. Use me until I am all used up. May I be disciplined in listening to You.

 May I be one you count on. May I be one of the few.

 Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.” Matthew 9:37

 

 

 

 

A faithful son

God gives us so much. Time, resources, relationships and gifts to get His job done. There will be an accounting for what I do with all this. Am I being a faithful son and getting the most out His generousity?

“His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.’ Matthew 25:21

May I put to use His many resources for His world.

Killing Desire is not Sanctification: God is not a Hard Man

Jesus told of the man who entrusted three of his servants with thousands of dollars, urging them to handle his affairs well while he was away. When he returned, he listened eagerly to their reports. The first two fellows went out into the marketplace and doubled their investment. As a result, they were handsomely rewarded. The third servant was not so fortunate. His gold was taken from him, and he was thrown into “outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” My goodness. Why? All he did was bury the money under the porch until his master’s return. Most of us would probably agree with the path he chose-at least the money was safe there. But listen to his reasoning. Speaking to his master, he said, “I know you are a hard man, harvesting crops you didn’t plant and gathering crops you didn’t cultivate. I was afraid I would lose your money, so I hid it” (see Matt. 25:14-30 NLT). He was afraid of the master, whom he saw as a hard man. He didn’t trust his master’s heart.

The issue isn’t capital gains-it’s what we think of God. When we bury our desires, we are saying the same thing: “God, I don’t dare desire because I fear you; I think you are hard-hearted.”

Even though we may profess at one level a genuine faith in him, at another level we are like the third servant. Our obedience is not so much out of love as it is out of carefulness. “Just tell me what to do, God, and I’ll do it.” Killing desire may look like sanctification, but it’s really godlessness. Literally, our way of handling life without God. The deepest moral issue is always what we, in our heart of hearts, believe about God. And nothing reveals this belief as clearly as what we do with our desire.

Fear and no loathing

Nothing is impossible with God. Do we have confidence in Him? Do we know, deep in our inner being, that He loves us and won’t leave us behind. Fear can be crippling. Fear comes from the lack of supernatual courage.

When there is a crisis out, and they do come, our confidence must be in Him. Our courage is with Him. He can, with a word, reverse the crisis.

He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Matthew 8:26

May I trust Him and have His courage.

Tough stuff

This is tough stuff. It doesn’t feel right. Our natural reactions, in relationships, can get us in trouble. Jesus has a different standard for us. Unless Jesus has invaded our life, relationships can be pretty difficult at times. Real love in relationships can require supernatural courage. It can only happen after Jesus has changed us. Jesus demanded that the “Eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth” world of natural and religious rules be completely changed. God is love and that is not how He does things. It isn’t how He wants us to do things either.

And so, it takes supernatural courage to love the way God loves us. But that is the way He wants us to love. That is what relationships in “His world” look like. This is an example of how to be a servant leader in relationships. The other alternative is to be a follower of how our “friends” do things.

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. Matthew 5:38-42

May we love the way God wants us to. May our relationships be based on how He loves not the way that serves us and not others.

Straight talk

Jesus can be very straightforward and direct. His suggestion on criticising is to not do it. Period. End of story. No other advice. In other places He elaborates why but the reason here is pretty compelling.

Do I want to be judged? Do I want to be criticised? If I don’t judge, I won’t be judged.

Judge not, that you be not judged. Matthew 7:1

Is the truth to close for comfort?

All heaven is applauding when I get in trouble for speaking the truth of the government of God. God is God and in control. I am in good company when I am put down for making his rule known. God is light and shines truth on us all. I can’t hide His light. I can’t pretend He isn’t in control.

How often, though, am I considering what others will think if I speak the truth in love?

May I speak the truth and seek our Father’s approval and not others.

Not only that—you will be more than happy every time people put you down or throw you out or speak lies about you to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable. You can be glad when that happens—give a cheer, even!—for though they don’t like it, I do! And all heaven applauds. And know that you are in good company. My prophets and witnesses have always gotten into this kind of trouble. Matthew 5:1-12

Be direct with God

My on my how we love to bargain. Even with God. If you … then I will …

Jesus says to stop that kind of behavior. We should be direct. He knows what we need. We should just ask for it.

That is what pleases Him. Directness and not a game.  

“Don’t bargain with God. Be direct. Ask for what you need.” ~~Jesus (Matthew 7:7)

Asking for more

If Peter was anything, he was nothing but bold. But it seems that he was also asking for more. When I have my eyes on our Master Jesus that is the way it is. Jesus wasn’t the only one to walk on water. Peter did too.

Jesus had supernatural courage. He didn’t do anything but what he saw His Father doing. He had His eyes focused on God. AND we serve a bold God.

May I have more boldness and fearless confidence. Water longs to be walked on again!

As soon as the meal was finished, he insisted that the disciples get in the boat and go on ahead to the other side while he dismissed the people. With the crowd dispersed, he climbed the mountain so he could be by himself and pray. He stayed there alone, late into the night.Meanwhile, the boat was far out to sea when the wind came up against them and they were battered by the waves. 

At about four o’clock in the morning, Jesus came toward them walking on the water. They were scared out of their wits. “A ghost!” they said, crying out in terror.But Jesus was quick to comfort them. “Courage, it’s me. Don’t be afraid.” Peter, suddenly bold, said, “Master, if it’s really you, call me to come to you on the water.”He said, “Come ahead.” Jumping out of the boat, Peter walked on the water to Jesus.

But when he looked down at the waves churning beneath his feet, he lost his nerve and started to sink. He cried, “Master, save me!” Jesus didn’t hesitate. He reached down and grabbed his hand. Then he said, “Faint-heart, what got into you?” The two of them climbed into the boat, and the wind died down. The disciples in the boat, having watched the whole thing, worshiped Jesus, saying, “This is it! You are God’s Son for sure!” Matthew 14

Family

Now here is some VERY good news. Pretty simple and straightforward. In this day of complicated programs and books, simplicity rocks. The kids even have it on a bracelet. WWJD. What would Jesus Do?

God’s plan is for me to do what He has in mind for me. All the time. That puts me in the family of God. Good news for sure.

For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother. Matthew 12:50

How is my appetite for God?

I love to eat. Almost anything, anytime. There is nothing like a great meal with family or friends. I have never been accused of not having a good appetite.

So, how is my appetite for God? Do I hunger for Him the same way the same way I do for a great meal? Do I long for Him like no other? I will be more than happy when I work up a good appetite for him!!

‘You’re more than happy when you’ve worked up a good appetite for God. He’s food and drink in the best meal you’ll ever eat.” Matthew 5:1-12

Here is wisdom

Follow this. Not what we envision on Christmas. They saw His star and were overjoyed. They sought Him out. When they found Him, they bowed and worshiped Him. They opened their treasure and gave Him gifts.

May I follow they steps of the wise men!!

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.’ …. After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Matthew 2:1-11 TNIV Bible

Stay awake!

We have work to do. Jesus has given a mission. Our assignment is clear. We can’t slack off.

We must be alert.

“So stay awake, alert.” ~Jesus (Matthew 24:42)

The Power of God and religious error

The Religious leaders of Jesus day were always trying to trip him up with trivial religious questions. You would have thought they would have known better or at least learned not to try because it always backfired on them.

Jesus answers are important for us though. We live in a religious culture and easily fall into the same traps. The trap is thinking we know God because we are religious, go to church, pray before meals, etc.

Two things are essential to not falling into error. The first is really knowing the scripture. Having God’s word in our hearts. The second is having the power of God in our life.

So …. after answering a number of their questions, “no one could say a word in reply, and from that day on no one dared to ask him any more questions.”

“You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God” ~~Jesus (Matthew 22:29)

 

Shortcuts to God?

We live in a world of shortcuts. We are always looking for the easy way, the quick way, things that take no to little effort. There are people who make a fortune selling the “successful life” formula.

That is not God’s way for sure. His new plan is to hit the goal every minute of every day. Day in and day out. No shortcuts at all.  God’s new plan is a 24/7/365 deal. Ready?

“Don’t look for shortcuts to God. The market is flooded with surefire, easygoing formulas for a successful life that can be practiced in your spare time. Don’t fall for that stuff, even though crowds of people do.” ~Jesus (Matthew 7:11-13)

Justified

Jesus knew the value of saying the right things. He only said what He heard His Father saying. That led Him to do what He saw His Father doing. Many things we say are pretty careless. There is an accounting for them.

May I say what I hear God saying.

I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned. Matthew 12:36-37

Culture of criticism

We pay people to be critics. They make a living doing it. They sometimes even get fancy titles like consultants and commentators. It seems to me we live in a culture of criticism. And it is taking hold more and more. I get sucked in some days. It is so easy to join in and judge. It is too easy to see what God is not doing in someone’s life and not what He is doing.

Now none of us appreciate it when the tables are turned and the criticism is directed at us. It hurts. It feels unfair. It is cruel we think.

Jesus is clear on all of this. He is very direct. “Do not judge”. That is it. Don’t do it.

May His grace deliver us from the culture of criticism. May we love the way He loves. May we see what He is doing.

 

‘Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. ‘Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in someone else’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? Matthew 7:1-4 TNIV Bible

 

God is with us

Nothing is impossible with God. He came to us, born of a virgin. God is with us. That is message of hope in God’s new plan. His goal is that we will have a intense relationship with Him.

May I experience His presence every minute of every day. He is Immanuel.

The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel’ — which means, ‘God with us.’ Matthew 1:23